The days passed, golden and full. Ruth gleaned behind Boaz's workers from morning till twilight, and each evening she brought home more than enough.
Naomi watched her with a knowing look. "My daughter," she said one evening, "should I not find rest for you? A home, where you will be well provided for?"
Ruth looked up. "What do you mean?"
"Boaz is our relative. He is one of our guardian-redeemers. Tonight, he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor."
A pause.
"Wash, perfume yourself, and dress in your best clothes. Then go to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you're there until he's finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do."
"I will do everything you say," Ruth whispered, heart racing.
Reflection:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord... "plans to give you a hope and a future."
—Jeremiah 29:11